For years, Panama was part of the morning routine for thousands of people across Northern Nevada. His gruff voice, quick energy and unmistakable personality made him a familiar presence on the radio, but his impact reached far beyond the microphone. Now, listeners and colleagues are remembering a man whose passion for radio was matched by his commitment to helping others.
Panama Hoston, known to listeners simply as Panama, died Sunday evening at Renown Medical Center from complications of liver failure. He was 66.
Panama had been a part of Northern Nevada radio for more than two decades, hosting shows on 103.7 The River and 1270 AM The Buzz, both owned by Reno Media Group. He joined the company in 2002 and had hosted shows on the stations since 2003.
In 2014, he teamed up with Mike Leach to create the “Panama and Mike” morning show, which became the top-rated morning program.
Leach remembered his longtime co-host as someone who gave everything he had to whatever he did.
“Panama went about everything at 100 miles per hour and always gave it his all, until he had nothing left,” Leach said. “He was the kind of person they talk about when they say ‘they broke the mold after they made him’. He will be dearly missed.”
Panama's influence extended well beyond the studio. He was deeply involved in community service, including a longstanding partnership with local philanthropist Evelyn Mount, who has since died. Together, they worked on the station's annual food drives, helping provide food for families in need across Northern Nevada.
He also served on the Board of Directors for the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame and lent his voice to local charities, fundraisers and community events.
Kara Brown, vice president and general manager of Reno Media Group, said Panama's contributions went far beyond his work on the air.
“A legendary voice in Northern Nevada and a proud inductee of the Nevada Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, Panama spent decades bringing joy, laughter and a familiar warmth to thousands of listeners each morning on the popular Panama and Mike morning show,” Brown said.
Brown also remembered him as a friend and a dedicated member of the community.
"Panama’s profound dedication to The River and our community made an immeasurable impact on all of us,” Brown added. “He was first and foremost, my friend. We are devastated by this huge loss, and our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with his family, his friends, and the countless listeners whose mornings he brightened for so many years. He was a true champion for Northern Nevada.”
Reno Media Group President Tom Quinn, who had worked with Panama since he joined the company in 2002, remembered the energy he brought to his work and the people around him.
Quinn said Panama had “an infectious love of life that poured through the microphone.”
“Panama was guided by a deep drive to help others,” Quinn said. “He was the heart of our company, and he didn't just use his platform to entertain. He used it to uplift, support, and bring our community closer together. His voice may be quiet now, but he leaves behind a community that is better and kinder because he was in it."
Born in Los Angeles on Oct. 13, 1960, Panama moved to Reno in 2001. He is survived by his wife, Veronica; his daughter, Vanessa; his stepson, Hector; his two sons from a previous relationship, Brandon and Dezmond; and four grandchildren.
A celebration of life is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, at The Flowing Tide, located at 465 S. Meadows Parkway, in South Reno. The event is open to everyone who loved Panama.
Those who want to share memories, condolences, or stories about how Panama touched their lives can email The River at TheRiver1037@gmail.com, leave a voice message at (775) 302-5096 that may be used on the air, or post a message on The River's Facebook page.
2 News Nevada extends its condolences to Panama's family, friends, colleagues, and the many listeners who welcomed him into their homes and lives each morning.
